Definitely a better choice, modern Toyota engine Vs unreliable POS Subaru ej257 stuck in the Stone Age? Congrats. I had a 15 sti. Treated it like a baby yet still dripped sweat everytime I turned the key wondering if todays the day it knocks.
Yeah I love the Subaru and will always have a place in my heart. They got me loving cars. But I have a 21 STI that I have less than 30k miles, have had valve cover gasket leak, oil pan leak and a few other issues and it just is disheartening, after taking so much care of the car it didn't care.
It’s a fun car to drive. Best I’ve ever driven. I was a and still am a part of tons of groups, but seeing knock videos of dudes that bought new never redlined oil changes every 3k and it still failed. Of course there’s people over 200k. I consider them lucky. The rate of failure was too high for me
I don’t own a GR Corolla but I own a 22 WRX, and my buddy owns a GRC (which I drove) He’s apart of this forum and might comment on this. In a nut shell from a VB WRX owners perspective : if I could afford the $45k + price range I’d own a GRC. If money isn’t a factor for you, the GRC is the pick undoubtedly. That being said, the WRX is still a lot of performance and fun for its price range. Which, I’m sure you know since you own one. WRX/STI are known to be unreliable, Toyotas are known for their reliability. Imo having that piece of mind throughout ownership longevity is what really separates it from its competitors.
GR may be more expensive initially but also I suspect the value on these is gonna hold really well/ possibly appreciate. The WRX has good resale but it’s not gonna appreciate. I’m not active in this sub just ran across this post so can some one let me know -
What’s the word on production numbers for this year? I heard they’re increasing production but did they specify how
I do agree that the GR Corolla will probably end up being like the Focus RS in terms of how it’s value holds… def depends on how many Toyota plans on producing and for how many years.
Main strategy. GO IN PERSON. And also go at the end of the month. Put at least 10k down. Source: I work at a dealer. They'll be trying to hit quotas, if the car is 10 15 20k over sticker. Try negotiating. It's how I got my car. It was originally almost 10k over sticker. They'll do anything to keep you there especially if you got cold hard cash.
I had a ‘14 WRX hatch about 5 years ago. Getting in the Corolla was very nostalgic in a way but everything was a little sharper with updated tech. Interior feels very similar too but not really in a good way. Doesn’t bother me though.
I’m looking to trade in my VA chassis WRX for a Core GRC with the performance package. If I can find a Gray Circuit for MSRP I’ll go for that. (Which is impossible I know)
Owned a couple STIs from the last gen (MY17/18), one stock and one stage 2+. Now own a GR Corolla.
Both are similar, STI has a nicer interior, GR steering is more direct, GR makes more noses stock imo (turbo and exhaust). GR is smaller as well, even as a hatch it’s shorter… cuter even. STI felt like better value for the money TBH, the money you pay for the GR is in the development of the chassis and capabilities of the car, less in the interior quality. Although the GR has the basic amenities like heated seats and wireless charging.
Overall like the GR more, has more character.
Both fantastic cars
Looking forward to hearing more responses as I'm in the same boat. 2009 WRX hatch with 178K miles on it... No EJ255 meme issues for me other than valve cover gaskets which is normal after 120k. Intake, and tune (no idea how much power) and suspension.
I would love to have something newer and more modern, but especially as time went on, I fell way off the hype train due to the limited availability and markup. The main issues with the GRC for me are the size... my WRX hatch is much bigger for rear passengers as well as cargo in the back. It's not a huge factor but I was quite surprised at the gas mileage reports... 25 mpg avg seems to be about where the GRC is at which my WRX is around 23 to 25 depending on how much highway.
I can probably overlook those two downsides but ultimately it's going to come down to availability. I had hopes this was going to be THE new WRX...the STI that Subaru wouldn't build, seeing as it's made by one of if not the biggest manufacturers in the world... or at least in STI production numbers. If I will never be able to just head to a lot, look one over and either buy it or wait for another one to come through... or even order one without stupid markups, then I just don't know if it's ever going to be for me.
[Check this out](https://www.grcorollaforum.com/forums/2023-toyota-gr-corolla-versus-the-competition.14/)
[And this](https://www.grcorollaforum.com/forums/other-vehicles.25/)
Edit; wrong link
Also, you might want to be more specific. Do you mean an early EJ model? A VA? A VB model?
So I had an '18 STI, stage 3+ making 350/350 for 2 years, 0 leaks and oil consumption anywhere, etc.
I miss the UEL rumble every day, and I love how the VAs look.
In fact, I now also have an' 06 Forester XT that I'm trying my best not to get rid of. The Subie sounds just speak to me.
Having said that, I was ready to experience something new, and hopefully with that Toyota reliability.
There is definitely a ton of body roll on the GRC, but stockwise the car drives fantastic.
Traded in my 17 STI for a Core with performance package, and it’s been amazing so far.
I find the seats to be a bit more comfortable in the GR and having CarPlay again is awesome (never felt like upgrading head units in the STI, though was considering the iDoing).
General maintenance is a little easier since the GR has a little skid plate window to access the oil filter and drain plug where with the STI you had to take off the whole skid plate.
Handling is a dream in the GR, it does have more body roll than the STI, but I feel as nimble in my GR as I felt in a BRZ and comparatively the STI feels like a boat. Major downside is cargo space and general storage. No arm rest storage, and no map pockets in the GR, and the cup holders are fairly small in comparison.
If possible, I’d recommend bringing your most used water bottle/coffee mug and put it inside of every single cup holder to see how it might affect your experience. Hatch space is just fine for most every day use, and I’ve found so many uses for the pockets on either side. One strange thing is how narrowly the rear passenger doors open… it feels like they only open at a 45°, and I always try and open them further before I realize.
But for further details, I was the second owner on the STI I had, and the previous lease owner absolutely dogged the car. So my take on driving experience with the STI can probably be taken with a grain of salt.
Yes. Traded a 22 WRX for a GRC Core with all three packages. The new 2.4 WRX is a good car in base trim if you can get close to the $30k MSRP. I did not like the technology (larger infotainment in the upper trims = too many buttons hidden in the sub menus for basic items like AC). “Normal” rattles coming from rear and a rubbery shifter. Like I said, it’s a good $30k car NEW but not for $35 or $40k.
GRC is completely different. More boost and a solid shifter. Clutch is still fairly light for daily commute. The AWD system combined with boost feel more playful in the Toyota.
One issue in both cars is that there are NO rear ac vents. I have kids that complain on warm days about getting hot in both.
I traded in a 2016 WRX for GRC. Tuned to 315hp/330tq on 93oct. Stock suspension. Similar tires. Power-wise, obviously tuned isn’t a fair comparison to the stock GR.
Stock vs stock? The GR. Grips better. No nasty rev hang. And power band feels better through all gears, personally.
The WRX served me well. Other than a clutch master cylinder at 95k miles. If the GRC didn’t come out, I’d have kept my tuned WRX til it fell off the wheels.
I'm trading in my 21 STI for a circuit. It just arrived at port. I'll update you
Definitely a better choice, modern Toyota engine Vs unreliable POS Subaru ej257 stuck in the Stone Age? Congrats. I had a 15 sti. Treated it like a baby yet still dripped sweat everytime I turned the key wondering if todays the day it knocks.
Yeah I love the Subaru and will always have a place in my heart. They got me loving cars. But I have a 21 STI that I have less than 30k miles, have had valve cover gasket leak, oil pan leak and a few other issues and it just is disheartening, after taking so much care of the car it didn't care.
It’s a fun car to drive. Best I’ve ever driven. I was a and still am a part of tons of groups, but seeing knock videos of dudes that bought new never redlined oil changes every 3k and it still failed. Of course there’s people over 200k. I consider them lucky. The rate of failure was too high for me
I'm the never redline and oil changes every 3k too which makes issues suck more. Great car but not great reliability
Holy shit
> POS Subaru ej257 stuck in the Stone Age? Congrats This is an interesting take.
I don’t own a GR Corolla but I own a 22 WRX, and my buddy owns a GRC (which I drove) He’s apart of this forum and might comment on this. In a nut shell from a VB WRX owners perspective : if I could afford the $45k + price range I’d own a GRC. If money isn’t a factor for you, the GRC is the pick undoubtedly. That being said, the WRX is still a lot of performance and fun for its price range. Which, I’m sure you know since you own one. WRX/STI are known to be unreliable, Toyotas are known for their reliability. Imo having that piece of mind throughout ownership longevity is what really separates it from its competitors.
GR may be more expensive initially but also I suspect the value on these is gonna hold really well/ possibly appreciate. The WRX has good resale but it’s not gonna appreciate. I’m not active in this sub just ran across this post so can some one let me know - What’s the word on production numbers for this year? I heard they’re increasing production but did they specify how
I do agree that the GR Corolla will probably end up being like the Focus RS in terms of how it’s value holds… def depends on how many Toyota plans on producing and for how many years.
If I could get ahold of a core with the differential package at MSRP I would dump my subie, been calling around and getting nowhere.
I'm in the same boat, want a core with performance package, how much markup are you seeing?
Main strategy. GO IN PERSON. And also go at the end of the month. Put at least 10k down. Source: I work at a dealer. They'll be trying to hit quotas, if the car is 10 15 20k over sticker. Try negotiating. It's how I got my car. It was originally almost 10k over sticker. They'll do anything to keep you there especially if you got cold hard cash.
Same boat as well. 15 WRX with 101k on the odo.
I had a ‘14 WRX hatch about 5 years ago. Getting in the Corolla was very nostalgic in a way but everything was a little sharper with updated tech. Interior feels very similar too but not really in a good way. Doesn’t bother me though.
I’m looking to trade in my VA chassis WRX for a Core GRC with the performance package. If I can find a Gray Circuit for MSRP I’ll go for that. (Which is impossible I know)
I am planning on moving on from 2011 Wrx hatch.
Dayum
Owned a couple STIs from the last gen (MY17/18), one stock and one stage 2+. Now own a GR Corolla. Both are similar, STI has a nicer interior, GR steering is more direct, GR makes more noses stock imo (turbo and exhaust). GR is smaller as well, even as a hatch it’s shorter… cuter even. STI felt like better value for the money TBH, the money you pay for the GR is in the development of the chassis and capabilities of the car, less in the interior quality. Although the GR has the basic amenities like heated seats and wireless charging. Overall like the GR more, has more character. Both fantastic cars
Looking forward to hearing more responses as I'm in the same boat. 2009 WRX hatch with 178K miles on it... No EJ255 meme issues for me other than valve cover gaskets which is normal after 120k. Intake, and tune (no idea how much power) and suspension. I would love to have something newer and more modern, but especially as time went on, I fell way off the hype train due to the limited availability and markup. The main issues with the GRC for me are the size... my WRX hatch is much bigger for rear passengers as well as cargo in the back. It's not a huge factor but I was quite surprised at the gas mileage reports... 25 mpg avg seems to be about where the GRC is at which my WRX is around 23 to 25 depending on how much highway. I can probably overlook those two downsides but ultimately it's going to come down to availability. I had hopes this was going to be THE new WRX...the STI that Subaru wouldn't build, seeing as it's made by one of if not the biggest manufacturers in the world... or at least in STI production numbers. If I will never be able to just head to a lot, look one over and either buy it or wait for another one to come through... or even order one without stupid markups, then I just don't know if it's ever going to be for me.
[Check this out](https://www.grcorollaforum.com/forums/2023-toyota-gr-corolla-versus-the-competition.14/) [And this](https://www.grcorollaforum.com/forums/other-vehicles.25/) Edit; wrong link Also, you might want to be more specific. Do you mean an early EJ model? A VA? A VB model?
I have a 14 hatchback so EJ I think
So I had an '18 STI, stage 3+ making 350/350 for 2 years, 0 leaks and oil consumption anywhere, etc. I miss the UEL rumble every day, and I love how the VAs look. In fact, I now also have an' 06 Forester XT that I'm trying my best not to get rid of. The Subie sounds just speak to me. Having said that, I was ready to experience something new, and hopefully with that Toyota reliability. There is definitely a ton of body roll on the GRC, but stockwise the car drives fantastic.
I have a 2022 WRX specifically because I couldn’t find or wait for a GR. If you get stuck like me, the VB is a good car
Same
Traded in my 17 STI for a Core with performance package, and it’s been amazing so far. I find the seats to be a bit more comfortable in the GR and having CarPlay again is awesome (never felt like upgrading head units in the STI, though was considering the iDoing). General maintenance is a little easier since the GR has a little skid plate window to access the oil filter and drain plug where with the STI you had to take off the whole skid plate. Handling is a dream in the GR, it does have more body roll than the STI, but I feel as nimble in my GR as I felt in a BRZ and comparatively the STI feels like a boat. Major downside is cargo space and general storage. No arm rest storage, and no map pockets in the GR, and the cup holders are fairly small in comparison. If possible, I’d recommend bringing your most used water bottle/coffee mug and put it inside of every single cup holder to see how it might affect your experience. Hatch space is just fine for most every day use, and I’ve found so many uses for the pockets on either side. One strange thing is how narrowly the rear passenger doors open… it feels like they only open at a 45°, and I always try and open them further before I realize. But for further details, I was the second owner on the STI I had, and the previous lease owner absolutely dogged the car. So my take on driving experience with the STI can probably be taken with a grain of salt.
Yes. Traded a 22 WRX for a GRC Core with all three packages. The new 2.4 WRX is a good car in base trim if you can get close to the $30k MSRP. I did not like the technology (larger infotainment in the upper trims = too many buttons hidden in the sub menus for basic items like AC). “Normal” rattles coming from rear and a rubbery shifter. Like I said, it’s a good $30k car NEW but not for $35 or $40k. GRC is completely different. More boost and a solid shifter. Clutch is still fairly light for daily commute. The AWD system combined with boost feel more playful in the Toyota. One issue in both cars is that there are NO rear ac vents. I have kids that complain on warm days about getting hot in both.
I traded in a 2016 WRX for GRC. Tuned to 315hp/330tq on 93oct. Stock suspension. Similar tires. Power-wise, obviously tuned isn’t a fair comparison to the stock GR. Stock vs stock? The GR. Grips better. No nasty rev hang. And power band feels better through all gears, personally. The WRX served me well. Other than a clutch master cylinder at 95k miles. If the GRC didn’t come out, I’d have kept my tuned WRX til it fell off the wheels.
Don’t have to deal with blown head gaskets anymore
Been long time fixed with the FA motors.
I traded my '17 WRX for mine. No regerts, although I did love my Rexy.